Retrofit remote control device mounting assembly

ABSTRACT

A remote control device may be mounted to a structure. The remote control device may include a control unit, a base, a faceplate, an adapter, and a mounting plate. The adapter may be configured to be attached to the faceplate. The adapter may be configured to be secured to the structure. The mounting plate may float between the adapter and the structure when the adapter is secured to the structure. The mounting plate may include a frame, a mounting tab, and a plurality of spring arms. The mounting tab may extend from the frame, for example, a platform on the frame. The mounting tab may be configured to prevent rotation of the base of the remote control device when the base is attached to the mounting plate. The plurality of spring arms may be configured to bias the mounting tab away from the structure.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 17/952,769, filed Sep. 26, 2022, which is acontinuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No.16/926,061, filed Jul. 10, 2020, which claims the benefit of ProvisionalU.S. Patent Application No. 62/873,382, filed Jul. 12, 2019 andProvisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62/882,184, filed Aug. 2, 2019,the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.

BACKGROUND

During the installation of typical load control systems, standardmechanical switches, such as traditional toggle switches or decoratorpaddle switches, may be replaced by more advanced load control devices,such as dimmer switches, that control the amount of power delivered froman alternating current (AC) power source to one or more electricalloads. Such an installation procedure typically requires that theexisting mechanical switch be disconnected from the electrical wiringand removed from a wallbox in which it is mounted, and that the loadcontrol device then be connected to the electrical wiring and installedin the wallbox. An average consumer may not feel comfortable performingthe electrical wiring required in such an installation. Accordingly,such a procedure may typically be performed by an electrical contractoror other skilled installer. However, hiring an electrical contractor maybe cost prohibitive to the average consumer.

Controllable light sources, such as controllable screw-in light-emittingdiode (LED) lamps, may provide an easier solution for providing advancedcontrol of lighting. For example, an older incandescent lamp simply beunscrewed from a socket and the controllable light source may be screwedinto the socket. The controllable light sources may be controlled byremote control devices. However, the sockets in which the controllablelight sources are installed may be controlled by an existingwall-mounted light switch. When the wall-mounted light switch isoperated to an off position, power to the controllable light source maybe cut, such that the controllable light source may no longer respond tocommands transmitted by the remote control devices. Accordingly, it isdesirable to prevent operation of such a wall-mounted light switch toensure that the delivery of power to the controllable light sourcecontinues uninterrupted.

SUMMARY

As described herein, a remote control device may provide a simpleretrofit solution for an existing switched control system.Implementation of the remote control device, for example in an existingswitched control system, may enable energy savings and/or advancedcontrol features, for example without requiring any electrical re-wiringand/or without requiring the replacement of any existing mechanicalswitches.

The remote control device may be configured to associate with, andcontrol, a load control device of a load control system, withoutrequiring access to the electrical wiring of the load control system. Anelectrical load may be electrically connected to the load control devicesuch that the remote control device may control an amount of powerdelivered to the electrical load, via the load control device.

In a first implementation, the remote control device may include a base(e.g., a mounting assembly) that is configured to be mounted over thetoggle actuator of the switch, and a control unit that is releasablyattachable to the base. The control unit may include an attachmentportion that is configured to be attached to the base. The control unitmay include a rotating portion that is configured to rotate relative tothe attachment portion, and thus relative to the base.

The base may include a base and a release tab that is operativelycoupled to the base. The base may be operated, via the release tab, froma locking position in which the control unit is secured to the base,into a release position in which the control unit may be detached fromthe base.

The control unit may include an actuation portion that is carried by therotating portion. The actuation portion may be configured to be actuatedalong a direction that extends parallel to an axis of rotation of therotating portion.

The base may be configured to be attached to a pedestal. The pedestalmay include a plate and a mounting tab. The plate may be configured torest on a horizontal surface. The mounting tab may extend from the plate(e.g., a platform on the plate). The mounting tab may be configured toextend into an opening defined by the base. The mounting tab may beconfigured to prevent rotation of the base of the remote control devicewhen the base is attached to the pedestal.

The remote control device may be mounted to a structure (e.g., wherethere is no light switch). The remote control device may include acontrol unit, a base, a faceplate, an adapter, and a mounting plate. Theadapter may be configured to be attached to the faceplate. The adaptermay be configured to be secured to the structure. The mounting plate mayfloat between the adapter and the structure when the adapter is securedto the structure. The mounting plate may include a frame, a mountingtab, and a plurality of spring arms. The mounting tab may extend fromthe frame (e.g., a platform on the frame). The mounting tab may beconfigured to extend into an opening defined by the base. The mountingtab may be configured to prevent rotation of the base of the remotecontrol device when the base is attached to the mounting plate. Theplurality of spring arms may be configured to bias the mounting tabforward (e.g., away from the structure).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of an example load control system thatincludes an example retrofit remote control device.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an example retrofit remote controldevice that includes a control unit component and a base component.

FIG. 3 is a partially exploded view of the example retrofit remotecontrol device illustrated in FIG. 2 , with the control unit detachedfrom the base.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a faceplate assembly of theexample retrofit remote control device illustrated in FIG. 2 .

FIG. 5 is a front view of the faceplate assembly of the example retrofitremote control device illustrated in FIG. 2 .

FIG. 6 is a cross-section view of the example retrofit remote controldevice illustrated in FIG. 2 , with the base attached to a mountingplate that abuts a structure.

FIG. 7 is a front exploded view of the example retrofit remote controldevice illustrated in FIG. 2 .

FIG. 8 is a rear exploded view of the example retrofit remote controldevice illustrated in FIG. 2 .

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of another example retrofit remotecontrol device that is attached to a pedestal.

FIG. 10 is a partially exploded view of the example retrofit remotecontrol device illustrated in FIG. 9 .

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the example retrofit remote controldevice illustrated in FIG. 9 .

FIG. 12 is a cross-section view of the pedestal of the example retrofitremote control device illustrated in FIG. 9

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of another example retrofit remotecontrol device that includes a control unit component and a basecomponent.

FIG. 14 is a partially exploded view of the example remote controldevice shown in FIG. 13 with an example base component attached to apaddle actuator of a light switch.

FIG. 15 is rear perspective view of the example retrofit remote controldevice depicted in FIG. 13 , illustrating the control unit componentattached to the base component.

FIG. 16 is an exploded view of the example retrofit remote controldevice illustrated in FIG. 13 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 depicts an example load control system 100. As shown, the loadcontrol system 100 is configured as a lighting control system thatincludes a load control device, such as a controllable light source 110,and a remote control device 120, such as a battery-powered rotary remotecontrol device. The remote control device 120 may include a wirelesstransmitter. The load control system 100 may include a standard, singlepole single throw (SPST) maintained mechanical switch 104 (e.g., atoggle switch, a paddle switch, a pushbutton switch, or a “lightswitch,” or other suitable switch) that may be in place prior toinstallation of the remote control device 120 (e.g., pre-existing in theload control system 100). The switch 104 may be electrically coupled inseries between a power source (e.g., an alternating current (AC) powersource 102 or a direct-current (DC) power source) and the controllablelight source 110. The switch 104 may include a toggle actuator 106 thatmay be actuated to toggle, for example to turn on and/or turn off, thecontrollable light source 110. The controllable light source 110 may beelectrically coupled to the AC power source 102 when the switch 104 isclosed (e.g., conductive), and may be disconnected from the AC powersource 102 when the switch 104 is open (e.g., non-conductive).

The remote control device 120 may be operable to transmit wirelesssignals, for example radio frequency (RF) signals 108, to thecontrollable light source 110 for controlling the intensity and/or color(e.g., color temperature) of the controllable light source 110. Thecontrollable light source 110 may be associated with the remote controldevice 120 during a configuration procedure of the load control system100, such that the controllable light source 110 is then responsive tothe RF signals 108 transmitted by the remote control device 120. Anexample of a configuration procedure for associating a remote controldevice with a load control device is described in greater detail incommonly-assigned U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008/0111491, publishedMay 15, 2008, entitled “Radio-Frequency Lighting Control System,” theentire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Theremote control device 120 may also be configured to transmit wirelesssignals for control of other electrical loads, such as for example, thevolume of a speaker and/or audio system, the position of a motorizedwindow treatment, the setpoint temperature of a heating and/or coolingsystem, and/or a controllable characteristic of another electrical loador device.

The controllable light source 110 may include an internal lighting load(not shown), such as, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED) lightengine, a compact fluorescent lamp, an incandescent lamp, a halogenlamp, or other suitable light source. The controllable light source 110includes a housing 112 that defines an end portion 114 through whichlight emitted from the lighting load may shine. The controllable lightsource 110 may include an enclosure 115 that is configured to house oneor more electrical components of the controllable light source 110, suchas an integral load control circuit (not shown), for controlling theintensity of the lighting load between a low-end intensity (e.g.,approximately 1%) and a high-end intensity (e.g., approximately 100%).The controllable light source 110 may include a wireless communicationcircuit (not shown) housed inside the enclosure 115, such that thecontrollable light source 110 may be operable to receive the RF signals108 transmitted by the remote control device 120 and control theintensity of the lighting load in response to the received RF signals.As shown, the enclosure 115 is attached to the housing 112.Alternatively, the enclosure 115 may be integral with, for examplemonolithic with, the housing 112, such that the enclosure 115 defines anenclosure portion of the housing 112. The controllable light source 110may include a screw-in base 116 that is configured to be screwed into astandard Edison socket, such that the controllable light source may becoupled to the AC power source 102. The controllable light source 110may be configured as a downlight (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ) that may beinstalled in a recessed light fixture. The controllable light source 110is not limited to the illustrated screw-in base 116, and may include anysuitable base, for example a bayonet-style base or other suitable baseproviding electrical connections.

The load control system 100 may also include one or more other devicesconfigured to wirelessly communicate with the controllable light source110. As shown, the load control system 100 includes a handheld,battery-powered, remote control device 130 for controlling thecontrollable light source 110. The remote control device 130 may includeone or more buttons, for example, an on button 132, an off button 134, araise button 135, a lower button 136, and a preset button 138, as shownin FIG. 1 . The remote control device 130 may include a wirelesscommunication circuit (not shown) for transmitting digital messages(e.g., including commands to control the lighting load) to thecontrollable light source 110, for example via the RF signals 108,responsive to actuations of one or more of the buttons 132, 134, 135,136, and 138. Alternatively, the remote control device 130 may bemounted to a wall or supported by a pedestal, for example a pedestalconfigured to be mounted on a tabletop. Examples of handheldbattery-powered remote controls are described in greater detail incommonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 8,330,638, issued Dec. 11, 2012,entitled “Wireless Battery Powered Remote Control Having MultipleMounting Means,” and U.S. Pat. No. 7,573,208, issued Aug. 22, 1009,entitled “Method Of Programming A Lighting Preset From A Radio-FrequencyRemote Control,” the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporatedby reference.

The load control system 100 may also include one or more of a remoteoccupancy sensor or a remote vacancy sensor (not shown) for detectingoccupancy and/or vacancy conditions in a space surrounding the sensors.The occupancy or vacancy sensors may be configured to transmit digitalmessages to the controllable light source 110, for example via the RFsignals 108, in response to detecting occupancy or vacancy conditions.Examples of RF load control systems having occupancy and vacancy sensorsare described in greater detail in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. No.7,940,167, issued May 10, 2011, entitled “Battery Powered OccupancySensor,” U.S. Pat. No. 8,009,042, issued Aug. 30, 2011, entitled “RadioFrequency Lighting Control System With Occupancy Sensing,” and U.S. Pat.No. 8,199,010, issued Jun. 12, 2012, entitled “Method And Apparatus ForConfiguring A Wireless Sensor,” the entire disclosures of which arehereby incorporated by reference.

The load control system 100 may include a remote daylight sensor (notshown) for measuring a total light intensity in the space around thedaylight sensor. The daylight sensor may be configured to transmitdigital messages, such as a measured light intensity, to thecontrollable light source 110, for example via the RF signals 108, suchthat the controllable light source 110 is operable to control theintensity of the lighting load in response to the measured lightintensity. Examples of RF load control systems having daylight sensorsare described in greater detail in commonly assigned U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/727,956, filed Mar. 19, 2010, entitled “WirelessBattery-Powered Daylight Sensor,” and U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/727,923, filed Mar. 19, 2010, entitled “Method Of Calibrating ADaylight Sensor,” the entire disclosures of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

The load control system 100 may include other types of input devices,for example, radiometers, cloudy-day sensors, temperature sensors,humidity sensors, pressure sensors, smoke detectors, carbon monoxidedetectors, air-quality sensors, security sensors, proximity sensors,fixture sensors, partition sensors, keypads, kinetic or solar-poweredremote controls, key fobs, cell phones, smart phones, tablets, personaldigital assistants, personal computers, laptops, time clocks,audio-visual controls, safety devices, power monitoring devices (such aspower meters, energy meters, utility submeters, utility rate meters),central control transmitters, residential, commercial, or industrialcontrollers, or any combination of these input devices.

During the configuration procedure of the load control system 100, thecontrollable light source 110 may be associated with a wireless controldevice, for example the remote control device 120, by actuating anactuator on the controllable light source 110 and then actuating (e.g.,pressing and holding) an actuator on the wireless remote control device(e.g., the rotating portion 122 of the remote control device 120) for apredetermined amount of time (e.g., approximately 10 seconds).

Digital messages transmitted by the remote control device 120, forexample directed to the controllable light source 110, may include acommand and identifying information, such as a unique identifier (e.g.,a serial number) associated with the remote control device 120. Afterbeing associated with the remote control device 120, the controllablelight source 110 may be responsive to messages containing the uniqueidentifier of the remote control device 120. The controllable lightsource 110 may be associated with one or more other wireless controldevices of the load control system 100, such as one or more of theremote control device 130, the occupancy sensor, the vacancy sensor,and/or the daylight sensor, for example using similar associationprocess.

After a remote control device, for example the remote control device 120or the remote control device 130, is associated with the controllablelight source 110, the remote control device may be used to associate thecontrollable light source 110 with the occupancy sensor, the vacancysensor, and/or the daylight sensor, without actuating the actuator 118of the controllable light source 110, for example as described ingreater detail in commonly-assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/598,529, filed Aug. 29, 2012, entitled “Two Part Load Control SystemMountable To A Single Electrical Wallbox,” the entire disclosure ofwhich is hereby incorporated by reference.

The remote control device 120 may be configured to be attached to thetoggle actuator 106 of the switch 104 when the toggle actuator 106 is inthe on position (e.g., typically pointing upwards) and the switch 104 isclosed and conductive. As shown, the remote control device 120 mayinclude a rotating portion 122 and a base portion 124. The base portion124 may be configured to be mounted over the toggle actuator 106 of theswitch 104. The rotating portion 122 may be supported by the baseportion 124 and may be rotatable about the base portion 124.

When the remote control device 120 is mounted over the toggle actuatorof a switch (e.g., the toggle actuator 106), the base portion 124 mayfunction to secure the toggle actuator 106 from being toggled. Forexample, the base portion 124 may be configured to maintain the toggleactuator 106 in an on position, such that a user of the remote controldevice 120 is not able to mistakenly switch the toggle actuator 106 tothe off position, which may disconnect the controllable light source 110from the AC power source 102, such that controllable light source 110may not be controlled by one or more remote control devices of the loadcontrol system 100 (e.g., the remote control devices 120 and/or 130),which may in turn cause user confusion.

As shown, the remote control device 120 is battery-powered, not wired inseries electrical connection between the AC power source 102 and thecontrollable light source 110 (e.g., does not replace the mechanicalswitch 104), such that the controllable light source 110 receives a fullAC voltage waveform from the AC power source 102, and such that thecontrollable light source 110 does not receive a phase-control voltagethat may be created by a standard dimmer switch. Because thecontrollable light source 110 receives the full AC voltage waveform,multiple controllable light sources (e.g., controllable light sources110) may be coupled in parallel on a single electrical circuit (e.g.,coupled to the mechanical switch 104). The multiple controllable lightsources may include light sources of different types (e.g., incandescentlamps, fluorescent lamps, and/or LED light sources). The remote controldevice 120 may be configured to control one or more of the multiplecontrollable light sources, for example substantially in unison. Inaddition, if there are multiple controllable light sources coupled inparallel on a single circuit, each controllable light source may bezoned, for example to provide individual control of each controllablelight source. For example, a first controllable light source 110 may becontrolled by the remote control device 120, while a second controllablelight source 110 may be controlled by the remote control device 130). Inprior art systems, a mechanical switch (such as the switch 104, forexample) typically controls such multiple light sources in unison (e.g.,turns them on and/or off together).

The remote control device 120 may be part of a larger RF load controlsystem than that depicted in FIG. 1 . Examples of RF load controlsystems are described in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,905,442,issued on May 18, 1999, entitled “Method And Apparatus For ControllingAnd Determining The Status Of Electrical Devices From Remote Locations,”and commonly-assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2009/0206983, published Aug. 20, 2009, entitled “Communication ProtocolFor A Radio Frequency Load Control System,” the entire disclosures ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

While the load control system 100 is described herein with reference tothe single-pole system shown in FIG. 1 , one or both of the controllablelight source 110 and the remote control device 120 may be implemented ina “three-way” lighting system having two single-pole double-throw (SPDT)mechanical switches, which may be referred to as “three-way” switches,for controlling a single electrical load. To illustrate, an examplesystem may comprise two remote control devices 120, with one remotecontrol device 120 connected to the toggle actuator of each SPDT switch.In such a system, the toggle actuators of each SPDT switch may bepositioned such that the SPDT switches form a complete circuit betweenthe AC source and the electrical load before the remote control devices120 are installed on the toggle actuators.

The load control system 100 shown in FIG. 1 may provide a simpleretrofit solution for an existing switched control system. The loadcontrol system 100 may provide energy savings and/or advanced controlfeatures, for example without requiring any electrical re-wiring and/orwithout requiring the replacement of any existing mechanical switches.To install and use the load control system 100 of FIG. 1 , a consumermay replace an existing lamp with the controllable light source 110,switch the toggle actuator 106 of the mechanical switch 104 to the onposition, install (e.g., mount) the remote control device 120 onto thetoggle actuator 106, and associate the remote control device 120 and thecontrollable light source 110 with each other, for example as describedabove.

It should be appreciated that the load control system 100 need notinclude the controllable light source 110. For example, in lieu of thecontrollable light source 110, the load control system 100 mayalternatively include a plug-in load control device for controlling anexternal lighting load. For example, the plug-in load control device maybe configured to be plugged into a receptacle of a standard electricaloutlet that is electrically connected to an AC power source. The plug-inload control device may have one or more receptacles to which one ormore plug-in electrical loads, such a table lamp or a floor lamp, may beplugged. The plug-in load control device may be configured to controlthe intensity of the lighting loads plugged into the receptacles of theplug-in load control device. It should further be appreciated that theremote control device 120 is not limited to being associated with, andcontrolling, a single load control device. For example, the remotecontrol device 120 may be configured to control multiple controllableload control devices, for example substantially in unison.

Examples of remote control devices configured to be mounted overexisting light switches are described in greater detail incommonly-assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0117871,published May 4, 2016, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2015/0371534, published Dec. 24, 2015, both entitled “Battery-PoweredRetrofit Remote Control Device,” the entire disclosures of which arehereby incorporated by reference.

It should further still be appreciated that, although a lighting controlsystem with the controllable light source 110 is provided as an exampleabove, a load control system as described herein may include morelighting loads, other types of lighting loads, and/or other types ofelectrical loads that may be configured to be controlled by the one ormore control devices. For example, the load control system may includeone or more of: a dimming ballast for driving a gas-discharge lamp; anLED driver for driving an LED light source; a dimming circuit forcontrolling the intensity of a lighting load; a screw-in luminaireincluding a dimmer circuit and an incandescent or halogen lamp; ascrew-in luminaire including a ballast and a compact fluorescent lamp; ascrew-in luminaire including an LED driver and an LED light source; anelectronic switch, controllable circuit breaker, or other switchingdevice for turning an appliance on and off; a plug-in control device,controllable electrical receptacle, or controllable power strip forcontrolling one or more plug-in loads; a motor control unit forcontrolling a motor load, such as a ceiling fan or an exhaust fan; adrive unit for controlling a motorized window treatment or a projectionscreen; one or more motorized interior and/or exterior shutters; athermostat for a heating and/or cooling system; a temperature controldevice for controlling a setpoint temperature of a heating, ventilation,and air-conditioning (HVAC) system; an air conditioner; a compressor; anelectric baseboard heater controller; a controllable damper; a variableair volume controller; a fresh air intake controller; a ventilationcontroller; one or more hydraulic valves for use in radiators andradiant heating system; a humidity control unit; a humidifier; adehumidifier; a water heater; a boiler controller; a pool pump; arefrigerator; a freezer; a television and/or computer monitor; a videocamera; a volume control; an audio system or amplifier; an elevator; apower supply; a generator; an electric charger, such as an electricvehicle charger; an alternative energy controller; and/or the like.

FIGS. 2-8 depict an example remote control device 200 (e.g., abattery-powered rotary remote control device) that may be deployed, forexample, as the remote control device 120 of the load control system 100shown in FIG. 1 . The remote control device 200 may be configured to bemounted over a standard light switch (e.g., the toggle actuator 106 ofthe SPST maintained mechanical switch 104 shown in FIG. 1 ). Forexample, as shown the remote control device 200 may be installed overthe toggle actuator 204 of an installed light switch 202 withoutremoving a faceplate 206 that is mounted to the light switch 202 (e.g.,via faceplate screws 208).

The remote control device 200 may include a base 210 (e.g., such as thebase portion 124 shown in FIG. 1 ) and a control unit 220 (e.g., such asthe rotating portion 122 shown in FIG. 1 ) that may be attached to thebase 210. The base 210 may alternatively be referred to as a baseportion or a mounting assembly. The control unit 220 may alternativelybe referred to as a control module. It should be appreciated that othercontrol units described herein may similarly be alternatively referredto as control modules. The control unit 220 may include a rotatingportion that is rotatable with respect to the base 210. For example, asshown, the control unit 220 includes an annular rotating portion 222that is configured to rotate about the base 210. The control unit 220may include an actuation portion 224, which may be operated separatelyfrom or in concert with the rotating portion 222. The remote controldevice 200 may be configured such that the control unit 220 and the base210 are removably attachable to one another. FIG. 3 depicts the remotecontrol device 200 with the control unit 220 detached from the base 210.When the control unit 220 is attached to the base 210 (e.g., as shown inFIG. 2 ), the rotating portion 222 may be rotatable in opposeddirections about the base 210, for example in the clockwise orcounter-clockwise directions.

The remote control device 200 may be configured to transmit one or morewireless communication signals (e.g., RF signals) to one or more controldevices. The remote control device 200 may include a wirelesscommunication circuit, e.g., an RF transceiver or transmitter (notshown), via which one or more wireless communication signals may be sentand/or received. The control unit 220 may be configured to transmitdigital messages (e.g., including commands) in response to one or moreactuations applied to the control unit 220, such as operation of therotating portion 222 and/or the actuation portion 224. The digitalmessages may be transmitted to one or more devices associated with theremote control device 200, such as the controllable light source. Forexample, the control unit 220 may be configured to transmit a commandvia one or more RF signals to raise the intensity of the controllablelight source in response to a clockwise rotation of the rotating portion222 and a command to lower the intensity of the controllable lightsource in response to a counterclockwise rotation of the rotatingportion 222. The control unit 220 may be configured to transmit acommand to toggle the controllable light source (e.g., from off to on orvice versa) in response to an actuation of the actuation portion 224. Inaddition, the control unit 220 may be configured to transmit a commandto turn the controllable light source on in response to an actuation ofthe actuation portion 224 (e.g., if the control unit 220 knows that thecontrollable light source is presently off). The control unit 220 may beconfigured to transmit a command to turn the controllable light sourceoff in response to an actuation of the actuation portion 224 (e.g., ifthe control unit 220 knows that the controllable light source ispresently on).

The base 210 may be configured to be fixedly attached to the actuator ofa mechanical switch (e.g., such as the light switch 104 shown in FIG. 1) and may be configured to maintain the actuator in the on position. Forexample, as shown the base 210 may define an opening 212 that extendstherethrough and that is configured to receive at least a portion of thetoggle actuator. With the base 210 so fixedly attached to the actuator,the toggle actuator may be prevented from being switched to the offposition. The base 210 may define a rear surface 214. Examples of a baseand/or mounting assembly for mounting a remote control device to anactuator of a mechanical switch are described in greater detail incommonly-assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No.

2017/0354023, published Dec. 2, 2017, entitled BATTERY-POWERED RETROFITREMOTE CONTROL DEVICE, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference.

Although the remote control device 200 may be configured to be mountedover a standard light switch, the remote control device 200 may bemounted to a structure that does not include a light switch. Forexample, the remote control device 200 may be mounted to a wall in alocation where there is no light switch. The remote control device 200may include a faceplate assembly 295 that is configured to be mounted toa structure. The faceplate assembly 295 may include a faceplate 296, anadapter plate 230, and a mounting plate 240. The faceplate 296 maydefine a front surface 299 and a rear surface 297. The faceplate 296 maydefine a faceplate opening 298. The adapter plate 230 may be configuredto be attached to the faceplate 296. A front surface 237 of the adapterplate 230 may abut the rear surface 297 of the faceplate 296, forexample, when the faceplate 296 is attached to the adapter plate.

The adapter plate 230 may be configured to be secured to the structure.For example, the adapter plate 230 may be configured to receivefasteners 235. The fasteners 235 may be configured to secure the adapterplate 230 to the structure. For example, the fasteners 235 may bereceived by respective anchors 236 in the structure. The adapter plate230 may define through-holes 232 that are configured to receive thefasteners 235. The adapter plate 230 may comprise stand-offs 238extending from a rear surface 231 of the adapter plate 230. Thethrough-holes 232 may extend through the stand-offs 238. The adapterplate 230 may define an adapter opening 234. The mounting plate 240 maydefine openings 247. The openings 247 may be square shaped. The openings247 may be configured to receive the stand-offs 238 of the adapter plate230 and the fasteners 235. The stand-offs 238 may be configured toprovide structural support for the adapter plate 230 as the fasteners235 are tightened into the anchors 236 and/or the structure.

The mounting plate 240 may be configured to float between the adapterplate 230 and the structure. The mounting plate 240 may include a frame242, a platform 244, a mounting tab 246, and a plurality of spring arms248. The mounting plate 240 (e.g., the frame 242) may define openings247 that are configured to receive respective fasteners of the one ormore fasteners 235. The platform 244 may extend from the frame 242. Themounting tab 246 may extend from the platform 244. The mounting tab 246and the platform 244 may be configured to secure the base 210 to thefaceplate assembly 295. A midpoint of the platform 244 may be locatedslightly offset from a center of the mounting plate 240. For example,the platform 244 may be offset from the center of the mounting plate 240such that the remote control device 200 is centered on the mountingplate 240 when secured to the platform 244. The mounting tab 246 may beconfigured to extend through the adapter opening 234 and the faceplateopening 298. The mounting tab 246 may be configured to prevent rotationof the base 210 when the remote control device 200 is attached to themounting plate 240 and the rotating portion 222 is rotated. Theplurality of spring arms 248 may be configured to bias the mounting tabaway (e.g., forward) from the structure. The plurality of spring arms248 may attach to the frame 242 proximate to (e.g., at) a midpoint 241of the frame 242. Each of the plurality of spring arms 248 may definedistal portions 249. The distal portion 249 of each of the plurality ofspring arms 248 may be biased away from the adapter plate 230 prior tothe adapter plate 230 being secured to the structure. The distalportions 249 may abut the structure when the adapter plate 230 issecured to the structure. Each of the plurality of spring arms 248 maybe configured to flex as the adapter plate 230 is secured to thestructure, for example, such that the distal portion 249 of each of theplurality of spring arms 248 are configured to move toward the adapterplate 230 as the adapter plate is secured to the structure.

The faceplate assembly 295 may include a fastener 250 that is configuredto secure the remote control device 200 (e.g., the base 210) to thefaceplate assembly 295. For example, the platform 244 may define anaperture 245 that is configured to receive the fastener 250. Thefastener 250 may be self-threading. For example, the aperture 245 may besized such that the fastener 250 secures the base 210 to the flatform244. Alternatively, the aperture 245 may be threaded such that theaperture 245 has complimentary threads to those of the fastener 250. Thebase 210 may define a through-hole 215 that is configured to receive thefastener 250.

The remote control device 200 may be configured to enable releasableattachment of the control unit 220 to the base 210. For example, thecontrol unit 220 may comprise two tabs 223 configured to snap ontorespective attachment clips 213 on the base 210. The control unit 220may be installed on the base 210 by pushing the control unit towards thebase 210 until the tabs 223 of the control unit 220 engage theattachment clips 213. The control unit 220 may be released from the base210 by pulling the control unit 220 away from the base 210. In addition,the base 210 may include a release mechanism that may be actuated torelease the control unit 220 from the base 210.

FIGS. 9-12 illustrate another example remote control device 300 attachedto a pedestal 330. The remote control device 300 may include a base 310(e.g., such as the base 210 shown in FIG. 3 ) and a control unit 320(e.g., such as the control unit 220 shown in FIG. 3 ) that may beattached to the base 310. The base 310 may alternatively be referred toas a base portion or a mounting assembly. The control unit 320 mayalternatively be referred to as a control module. It should beappreciated that other control units described herein may similarly bealternatively referred to as control modules. The control unit 320 mayinclude a rotating portion that is rotatable with respect to the base310. For example, as shown, the control unit 320 includes an annularrotating portion 322 that is configured to rotate about the base 310.The control unit 320 may include an actuation portion 324, which may beoperated separately from or in concert with the rotating portion 322.The remote control device 300 may be configured such that the controlunit 320 and the base 310 are removably attachable to one another. FIG.10 depicts the remote control device 300 with the control unit 320detached from the base 310.

The base 310 may define an opening 312 that extends therethrough andthat is configured to receive at least a portion of the pedestal 330.The base 310 may define a rear surface 314.

The pedestal 330 may be a mount that is configured to rest on ahorizontal surface. The pedestal 330 may be configured to receive theremote control device 300. For example, the remote control device 300may be mounted to the pedestal 330. The pedestal 330 may include a plate340, a platform 350, and a mounting tab 360. The plate 340 may beconfigured to rest on a horizontal surface. For example, the plate 340may define a rear surface 342 that is configured to abut the horizontalsurface. The plate 340 may define an upper face 344. The plate 340 maybe circular.

The plate 340 (e.g., the upper face 344) may define a first portion 344A(e.g., a first upper surface) 1 and a second portion 344B (e.g., asecond upper surface). The first portion 344A may be defined between acenter of the plate 340 and a first radius R1 from the center of theplate 340. The second portion 344B may be defined between the firstradius R1 and a second radius R2 from the center of the plate 340. Thefirst portion 344A may be a first distance D1 from a rear surface 342 ofthe plate 340. The second portion 344B may be a second distance D2 fromthe rear surface 342 of the plate 340. The second distance D2 may begreater than the first distance D1, for example, as shown in FIG. 12 .The first portion 344A and the second portion 344B may define a cavity346. For example, a difference between the first portion 344A and thesecond portion 344B may define the cavity 346. The cavity 346 may beconfigured to receive a portion of the remote control device 300. Theremote control device 300 (e.g., the rear surface 314 of the base 310)may abut the first portion 344A when received by the cavity 346.

Alternatively, the plate 340 (e.g., the upper face 344) may define afirst thickness at the first radius R1 from the center of the plate 340.The plate 340 may define a second thickness between the first radius R1and the second radius R2 from the center of the plate 340. The secondthickness may be greater than the first thickness. A difference betweenthe first thickness and the second thickness may define the cavity 346.The cavity 346 may be configured to receive a portion of the remotecontrol device 300. Stated differently, the first portion 344A (e.g.,the first upper surface) may define the first thickness and the secondportion 344B (e.g., the second upper surface) may define the secondthickness.

The platform 350 may extend from the plate 340 (e.g., the upper face344). For example, the platform 350 may extend from the first portion344A of the upper face 344. A midpoint of the platform 350 may belocated slightly offset from the center of the plate 340. For example,the platform 350 may be offset from the center of the plate 340 suchthat the remote control device 300 is centered on the plate 340 whensecured to the pedestal 330. The platform 350 may include an aperture352.

The mounting tab 360 may extend from the platform 350. The mounting tab360 may extend into the opening 312 defined by the base 310. Themounting tab 360 may be configured to prevent rotation of the remotecontrol device 300 (e.g., the base 310) when the rotating portion 322 isrotated.

The platform 350 and the mounting tab 360 may simulate an actuator of alight switch. For example, the platform 350 and the mounting tab 360 maybe a similar shape to that of an actuator of a light switch such thatthe mounting tab 360 extends into the opening 312.

The remote control device 300 may include a fastener 370. The fastener370 may be configured to secure the remote control device 300 to thepedestal 330. For example, the fastener 370 may be configured to securethe base 310 to the platform 350. The aperture 352 may receive thefastener 370, for example, to secure the remote control device 300(e.g., the base 310) to the pedestal 330. The fastener 370 may beself-threading. For example, the aperture 352 may be sized such that thefastener 370 secures the base 310 to the platform 350. Alternatively,the aperture 352 may be threaded such that the aperture 352 hascomplimentary threads to those of the fastener 370. The base 310 maydefine a through-hole 315 that is configured to receive the fastener370.

FIGS. 13-16 depict another example remote control device 400 that may beinstalled in a load control system (e.g., such as load control system100 shown in FIG. 1 ). The load control system may include a mechanicalswitch, such as the mechanical switch 490 (e.g., such as the mechanicalswitch 190 shown in FIG. 1 ), that may be in place prior to installationof the remote control device 400, for example pre-existing in the loadcontrol system. The load control system may further include one or moreelectrical loads, such as lighting loads. The mechanical switch 490 maybe coupled in series electrical connection between an alternatingcurrent (AC) power source and the one or more electrical loads (notshown), such as a controllable light source. The load control system mayfurther include one or more load control devices (not shown) that areelectrically connected to the one or more electrical loads and/orintegral to the one or more electrical loads, as described herein.

As shown, the example remote control device 400 may include a controlunit 420 and a control base 410 that may operate as a mount for thecontrol unit 420. The base 410 may alternatively be referred to as acontrol base portion or a control mounting assembly. The control unit420 and the control base 410 may be configured such that the controlunit 420 may be removably attached to the control base 410. The controlunit 420 may alternatively be referred to as a control module. It shouldbe appreciated that other control units described herein may similarlybe alternatively referred to as control modules.

The control unit 420 may comprise a user interface including a rotatingportion 422 and an actuation portion 424. The rotating portion 422 maybe rotatable with respect to the control base 410. For example, asshown, the control unit 420 includes an annular rotating portion 422that is configured to rotate about the control base 410. The remotecontrol device 400 may be configured such that the control unit 420 andthe control base 410 are removably attachable to one another. FIG. 16depicts the remote control device 400 with the control unit 420 detachedfrom the control base 410. When the control unit 420 is attached to thecontrol base 410 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 13 ), the rotating portion 422may be rotatable in opposed directions about the control base 410, forexample in the clockwise or counter-clockwise directions. The controlbase 410 may be configured to be mounted over a light switch such thatthe application of rotational movement to the rotating portion 422 doesnot actuate the light switch.

The actuation portion 424 may be operated separately from or in concertwith the rotating portion 422. As shown, the actuation portion 424 mayinclude a circular surface within an opening defined by the rotatingportion 422. In an example implementation, the actuation portion 424 maybe configured to move inward toward the light switch to actuate amechanical switch (not shown) inside the control unit 420, for instanceas described herein. The actuation portion 424 may be configured toreturn to an idle or rest position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 13 ) afterbeing actuated. In this regard, the actuation portion 424 may beconfigured to operate as a toggle control of the control unit 420.

The remote control device 400 may be configured to transmit one or morewireless communication signals (e.g., RF signals) to one or more controldevices. The remote control device 400 may include a wirelesscommunication circuit, e.g., an RF transceiver or transmitter (notshown), via which one or more wireless communication signals may be sentand/or received. The control unit 420 may be configured to transmitdigital messages (e.g., including commands) in response to one or moreactuations applied to the control unit 420, such as operation of therotating portion 422 and/or the actuation portion 424. The digitalmessages may be transmitted to one or more devices associated with theremote control device 400, such as the controllable light source. Forexample, the control unit 420 may be configured to transmit a commandvia one or more RF signals to raise the intensity of the controllablelight source in response to a clockwise rotation of the rotating portion422 and a command to lower the intensity of the controllable lightsource in response to a counterclockwise rotation of the rotatingportion 422. The control unit 420 may be configured to transmit acommand to toggle the controllable light source (e.g., from off to on orvice versa) in response to an actuation of the actuation portion 424. Inaddition, the control unit 420 may be configured to transmit a commandto turn the controllable light source on in response to an actuation ofthe actuation portion 424 (e.g., if the control unit 420 knows that thecontrollable light source is presently off). The control unit 420 may beconfigured to transmit a command to turn the controllable light sourceoff in response to an actuation of the actuation portion 424 (e.g., ifthe control unit 420 knows that the controllable light source ispresently on).

The control base 410 may be configured to be fixedly attached to anactuator 492 of the mechanical switch 490, such as a paddle actuator ofthe light switch, and may be configured to maintain the actuator in theon position. For example, the remote control device 400 may include acover portion 430 (e.g., a mounting adapter) and a cover base 440. Thecover base 440 may alternatively be referred to as a cover base portionor a cover mounting assembly. The cover portion 430 may be configured tocover the actuator of the mechanical switch and receive the control base410. For example, the control base 410 may be attached (e.g., releasablyattached) to the cover portion 430. The cover base 440 may define anopening 412 for allowing for attachment of the cover base 440 to thecover portion 430 (e.g., as will be described in greater detail below).The cover portion 430 may be configured to releasably retain the controlbase 410. The cover portion 430 may define a front surface 432 and arear surface 434. The cover portion 430 may include a mounting tab 435that extends from the front surface 432. The mounting tab 235 may beconfigured to be received in the opening 412 of the control base 410.The mounting tab 435 may be configured to prevent rotation of thecontrol base 410 when the control base 410 is attached to the coverportion 430. The cover portion 430 may include one or more tabs 436 thatextend from the rear surface 434. The one or more tabs 436 may beconfigured to secure the cover portion 430 to the cover base 440.

The cover base 440 may be configured to releasably retain the coverportion 430 when the control base 410 is attached to the cover portion430. The cover base 440 may include a frame 442 and an engagementmechanism 444. The frame 442 may be configured to be mounted over theactuator 492 of the mechanical switch 490. Although the frame 442 isshown in FIGS. 14 and 16 installed in a first orientation, it should beappreciated that the frame 442 may be configured to be installed in asecond orientation that is separated from the first orientation by 180degrees. The frame 442 may be installed in the first or secondorientation depending on whether an upper portion or a lower portion ofthe actuator 492 protrudes when power is being delivered to anelectrical load. The frame 442 may include a frame opening 443 thatextends therethrough. The frame opening 443 may be configured to receivea portion of the actuator 492. For example, the frame opening 443 may beconfigured to receive the upper portion of the actuator 492 wheninstalled in the first orientation and may be configured to receive thelower portion of the actuator 492 when installed in the secondorientation.

The engagement mechanism 444 may be configured to secure the cover base440 to the actuator 492. For example, the engagement mechanism 444 maysecure the cover base 440 in a mounted position relative to the actuator492. The engagement mechanism 444 may cause a rear surface 445 to bebiased against an outer surface 499 of the faceplate 496 such that theactuator 492 is maintained in a first position in which power isdelivered to the electrical load. The engagement mechanism 444 may beoperable to contact a first side 491 of the actuator 492 such that anopposed second side 493 of the actuator 492 is biased against acorresponding inner wall 446 of the frame 442. The inner wall 446 maydefine (e.g., partially define) the frame opening 443.

The engagement mechanism 444 may include a clamp arm 450 (e.g., a bar),for example, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 16 . The clamp arm 450 may extendinto the frame opening 443. A first end 451 of the clamp arm 450 may besupported by the frame 442. A second end 452 of the clamp arm 450 may betranslatable toward a center of the frame opening 443 (e.g., toward theinner wall 446). For example, the first end 451 may be pivotallysupported by the frame 442 such that the second end 452 is configured tomove toward (e.g., and away from) the inner wall 446. The clamp arm 450may define an edge 453 that faces the center of the frame opening 443.The edge 453 (e.g., at least a portion of the edge 453) may beconfigured to abut the first side 491 of the actuator 492. For example,the edge 453 may abut the first side 491 of the actuator 492 as thesecond end 452 of the clamp arm 450 is translated toward the center ofthe frame opening 443.

The engagement mechanism 444 may include a screw 460. The screw 460 mayoperably connect the second end 452 of the clamp arm 450 to the frame442. The screw 460 may be configured to translate the clamp arm 450toward (e.g., and away from) the inner wall 446. For example, drivingthe screw 460 (e.g., clockwise) may cause the second end 452 of theclamp arm 450 to travel toward the inner wall 446. Driving the screw 460in the opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise) may cause the secondend 452 of the clamp arm 450 to travel away from the inner wall 446.

The frame 442 may define one or more slots 448. The slots 448 may beconfigured to receive corresponding tabs 436 of the cover portion 430,for example, to secure the cover portion 430 to the cover base 440.

The remote control device 400 may include a fastener 415. The fastener415 may be configured to secure the remote control device 400 (e.g., thecontrol base 410) to the cover portion 430. For example, the fastener415 may be configured to secure the control base 410 to a platform 470that extends from the front surface 432 of the cover portion 430. Themounting tab 435 may extend from the platform 470. A midpoint of theplatform 470 may be located slightly offset from the center of the coverportion 430. For example, the platform 470 may be offset from the centerof the cover portion 430 such that the remote control device 400 iscentered on the cover portion 430 when secured to the platform 470.

The platform 470 may define an aperture 472. The aperture 472 mayreceive the fastener 415, for example, to secure the remote controldevice 400 (e.g., the control base 410) to the cover portion 430. Thefastener 415 may be self-threading. For example, the aperture 472 may besized such that the fastener 415 secures the control base 410 to thecover portion 430. Alternatively, the aperture 472 may be threaded suchthat the aperture 472 has complimentary threads to those of the fastener415. The control base 410 may define a through-hole 416 that isconfigured to receive the fastener 415. A rear surface 414 of thecontrol base 410 may abut the front surface 432 of the cover portion 430when the remote control device 400 is secured to the cover portion 430.

It should be appreciated that retrofit remote control devices (e.g., theexample remote control devices 120, 200, 300, 400 illustrated anddescribed herein) may be implemented with alternative user interfacesthat may be configured to be attached to the bases/base portions 124,210, 310, 410 (e.g., other than the rotating portions 122, 222, 322, 422and the actuation portions 224, 324, 424). For example, any of thebases/base portions 124, 210, 310, 410 may be configured to have mountedthereto a remote control device having another type of actuator thatmoves relative to the base, such as a linear slider and/or a rockerswitch. Additionally, a remote control device having one or more buttonsand/or a touch sensitive surface (e.g., a capacitive touch surface) forcontrolling, for example, electrical loads may be configured to bemounted to the bases/base portions 124, 210, 310, 410.

It should further be appreciated that the control units 220, 320, 420illustrated and described herein are not limited to having circularshapes, and that the control units may be alternatively implementedhaving other shapes. For example, any of the control units 220, 320, 420(e.g., the rotating portions 122, 222, 322, 422 and/or the actuationportions 224, 324, 424) may be configured with rectangular shapes,square shapes, diamond shapes, triangular shapes, oval shapes, starshapes, or any other suitable shapes. Additionally, the respective frontsurfaces of any of the actuation portions 224, 324, 424 and/or the sidesurfaces of each of the rotating portions 122, 222, 322, 422 may beplanar or non-planar. Furthermore, the surfaces of any of the controlunits 220, 320, 420 may be characterized by various colors, finishes,designs, patterns, or the like.

1. A faceplate assembly that is configured to be mounted to a structure,and that is further configured such that a remote control device thatcontrols an amount of power delivered to an electrical load isattachable to the faceplate assembly, the faceplate assembly comprising:a faceplate defining a faceplate opening; an adapter that is configuredto be attached to the faceplate, the adapter configured to be secured tothe structure, and the adapter defining an adapter opening; and amounting plate that is configured to be located between the adapter andthe structure, the mounting plate comprising: a frame; a platform thatextends from the frame; a mounting tab that extends from the platform,the mounting tab configured to extend through the adapter opening andthe faceplate opening; and one or more spring arms configured to biasthe mounting tab forward away from the structure.
 2. The faceplateassembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more spring arms are attached tothe frame proximate to a midpoint of the frame.
 3. The faceplateassembly of claim 1, wherein distal portions of each of the one or morespring arms are configured to abut the structure when the adapter issecured to the structure.
 4. The faceplate assembly of claim 3, whereinthe distal portions of each of the one or more spring arms are biasedaway from the adapter prior to the adapter being secured to thestructure.
 5. The faceplate assembly of claim 4, wherein each of the oneor more spring arms are configured to flex such that the distal portionof each of the plurality of spring arms are configured to move towardthe adapter as the adapter is secured to the structure.
 6. The faceplateassembly of claim 1, wherein the adapter is secured to the structureusing one or more of fasteners or anchors.
 7. The faceplate assembly ofclaim 6, wherein the mounting plate defines fastener openings that areconfigured to receive respective fasteners.
 8. The faceplate assembly ofclaim 1, further comprising a fastener configured to secure the remotecontrol device to the faceplate assembly.
 9. The faceplate assembly ofclaim 8, wherein the platform defines an aperture that is configured toreceive the fastener.
 10. The faceplate assembly of claim 1, wherein themounting tab is configured to prevent rotation of a base of the remotecontrol device when the remote control device is attached to themounting plate.
 11. A remote control device that is configured to bemounted to a structure, and wherein the remote control device controlsan amount of power delivered to an electrical load, the remote controldevice comprising: a control unit that includes an attachment portionand a rotating portion that is configured to rotate relative to theattachment portion; a base to which the control unit is attachable, thebase configured to releasably retain the control unit; a faceplatedefining a faceplate opening; an adapter that is configured to beattached to the faceplate, the adapter configured to be secured to thestructure, and the adapter defining an adapter opening; a mounting platethat is configured to be located between the adapter and the structure,the mounting plate comprising: a frame; a platform that extends from theframe; a mounting tab that extends from the platform, the mounting tabconfigured to extend through the adapter opening and the faceplateopening; and one or more spring arms configured to bias the mounting tabforward away from the structure; a wireless communication circuit; and acontrol circuit that is communicatively coupled to the rotating portionand the wireless communication circuit, the control circuit configuredto cause the wireless communication circuit to transmit a control signalin response to an actuation of the rotating portion.
 12. The remotecontrol device of claim 11, wherein the one or more spring arms areattached to the frame proximate to a midpoint of the frame.
 13. Theremote control device of claim 11, wherein distal portions of each ofthe one or more spring arms are configured to abut the structure whenthe adapter is secured to the structure.
 14. The remote control deviceof claim 13, wherein the distal portions of each of the one or morespring arms are biased away from the adapter prior to the adapter beingsecured to the structure.
 15. The remote control device of claim 14,wherein each of the one or more spring arms are configured to flex suchthat the distal portion of each of the plurality of spring arms areconfigured to move toward the adapter as the adapter is secured to thestructure.
 16. The remote control device of claim 11, wherein theadapter is secured to the structure using one or more of fasteners oranchors.
 17. The remote control device of claim 16, wherein the mountingplate defines fastener openings that are configured to receiverespective fasteners.
 18. The remote control device of claim 11, furthercomprising a fastener configured to secure the remote control device tothe mounting plate, and wherein the platform defines an aperture that isconfigured to receive the fastener.
 19. The remote control device ofclaim 11, wherein the base comprises a mechanism that is operable tocause the control unit to release from the base.
 20. The remote controldevice of claim 11, wherein the mounting tab is configured to preventrotation of the base when the remote control device is attached to themounting plate.